Collaborate Disseminate
Italian researchers have created a novel 4D-printed biodegradable soft robot shaped like a seed that changes shape in response to changes in humidity and can navigate through the soil. The device has great potential as a new way of monitoring the envir… Continue reading First 4D-printed, shape-changing ‘seed robot’ to monitor the environment
While reusing cutlery is always better than discarding it, most people aren’t going to be packing a knife and fork whenever they grab some fast food. With that fact in mind, scientists have designed a recyclable plant-and-wood-based material that disso… Continue reading Plant-and-wood-based material is strong, yet dissolves when discarded
Even though glass is praised for being fully recyclable, the US Environmental Protection Agency states that only about a third of discarded glass items actually get recycled. With that problem in mind, scientists have developed a new type of glass whic… Continue reading Experimental biodegradable glass breaks down when composted
The zebra’s distinctive appearance has been the source of much scientific debate, from its role in predator confusion, to how it can to deter horsefly bites. And recently, it was found that the animals can raise the fur of their black segments to trans… Continue reading Zebra stripes spark inspiration for smart, wearable source of electricity
While there are already a variety of implants that dispense medication within the body, most of them either can’t be externally controlled, or they eventually have to be surgically removed. A new one, however, uses light to avoid both problems.Continue… Continue reading Light-activated biodegradable implant delivers meds on demand
Although disposable plastic straws are being phased out in some countries, their “greener” replacements have a few shortcomings of their own. Well, scientists have now developed bioplastic straws that don’t get soggy, but do biodegrade when discarded.C… Continue reading Non-soggy biodegradable drinking straws made from wood waste
E-waste is one of the main unfortunate consequences of the widespread adoption of electronic devices, and there are various efforts to stem the flow of this pernicious trash. One new …read more Continue reading MycelioTronics: Biodegradable Electronics Substrates from Fungi
Plastics are made to last, which is great while they’re being used but not so great after they’re discarded. Now chemists at the University of Konstanz have developed a new kind of plastic that has all the durability of regular plastic, but biodegrades… Continue reading Chemical “breaking points” let new type of plastic biodegrade in days
The leads that connect external pacemakers to the heart can potentially cause problems, either if they’re removed or left in place. German scientists are therefore developing an alternative, in the form of leads that get absorbed by the body.Continue R… Continue reading New pacemaker leads would dissolve in the body when no longer needed
Among other things, mushrooms have been put forth as eco-friendly alternatives to leather and expanded foam packaging. According to a new study, they might also find use in biodegradable electronic devices.Continue ReadingCategory: Environment, Science… Continue reading Mushroom-derived electronics designed to biodegrade when discarded